With its spectacular beaches, azure waters, iconic white-washed buildings and warm, welcoming culture, Greece has long been a favourite destination for those seeking sun, sea, sand, great food and a touch of luxury, and its islands attract millions of tourists each year. But one region of this vibrant nation that you might not know of is the breath-taking Peloponnese Peninsula, which is steeped in rich history and is as much home to ancient ruins and Medieval castles as it is show-stopping natural beauty.
Located in the south of Greece, its quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for 2025, and if you’ve already done the country’s best-known holiday spots like Mykonos and Santorini and are looking for a more authentic Greek experience, then it should be at the top of your travel list for the new year.
If you’re wondering where to start your Peloponnese adventure, then look no further, because from Mistras to Mazaraki and everywhere in between, we’ve rounded up the top places to visit in the region, with something for everyone.
Mycenae
For history buffs, the legendary archaeological site of Mycenae is the obvious place to start, and promises to whisk you back in time to ancient Greece. King Agamemnon – who in Greek mythology, was said to have commanded the Achaeans during the Trojan War, once resided in the ancient city, and from the ancient palace complex to the well-preserved Treasury of Atreus, there’s more than enough to keep you gasping in awe many times over for an entire day.
Excitingly, there are still excavation projects underway on site and they’re set to continue into next year. That means that even more evidence of the ancient city is likely to be uncovered soon, making 2025 the perfect time to go. For the best possible experience, hire a private guide to talk you through Mycenae’s captivating history. Their in-depth knowledge is certain to bring it to life.
Mistras
Medieval Mistras is a medieval marvel that can be found close to Sparta, nestled on the slopes of Taygetus. What’s most interesting about it is the fact that it was once the capital of the Byzantine Despotate of the Moorea, all the way back in the 14th century – and although many years have passed since its heyday, it is still as impressive a sight to behold as ever.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is an essential stop when visiting the Peloponnese and promises to leave an indelible mark on you, offering a glimpse into the Byzantine Empire as it slowly came to an end. From the Palace of the Despots to the Mistras Citadel, it’s an awe-inspiring open air museum you won’t want to miss.
Mazaraki
The village of Mazaraki is located in the middle of the Peloponnese peninsula and is surrounded by verdant olive and orange groves. It’s an area that has been blessed with a unique microclimate and with fewer tourists than in other places, Mazaraki offers a genuine taste of the spirit of the Peninsula and makes for a peaceful retreat if you’re looking for somewhere a little more low-key.
The area surrounding Mazaraki is rich in ancient settlements, each with its own unique history and traditions. Some of the most notable include Patras, Kalamata, Loutraki, Mycenae, Olympia, and Sparta.
The archaeological museum of Sparta is worth a visit and will take you on an interesting journey through history, showcasing artifacts from the local area including ritual stone sickles, ceramic masks, a statue of King Leonidas, and Roman mosaic fragments.
The Mega Spileo monastery is also accessible from Mazaraki and is uniquely located on the edge of a cliff, reachable via a scenic train that winds through mountains and forests. Famous for its wax-working icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, created during her life by the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke, it makes for a great day out.
Best beaches in the Peloponnese
If after all that history, you’re in the mood for a little bit of much-needed rest and relaxation then the Peloponesse also has plenty to offer. Beach lovers will almost certainly delight in the likes of Corinthia, Loutraki, and Xylokastro – some of the best and most beautiful in the region. Over in the Argolida, there are more pristine, sandy beaches like Tolo, Karatonas, and Plepi, while Arvanitia and Neraki offer some pretty pebbled coves where you can kick back and soak up some sunshine.
